Going into retirement successfully is a gradual process. But, it can be a jarring transition for the unprepared, many of whom don’t realize it should start long before they close their office doors for the last time.

The challenges below can make retiring difficult, but wise planning and help from a retirement coach will help you avoid them.  

5 Tips for Easing Into Retirement

1. Relinquishing Status

No longer being in charge or having a staff to schedule meetings, research issues, write memos, fix computers and arrange flights might feel awkward, but remember, your life wasn’t always that way. One way to cope with the new “status” is by developing an open mindset to learning new things, meeting new friennds and valuing the freedom which comes from relinquishing the weight of responsibility and obligations you endured for so long.

2. Change in Relationships With Colleagues & Peers

You may want to keep in touch with coworkers and peers after you retire. Scheduling a casual lunch or dinner with them from time to time gives you a way to stay connected. Consider other social activities you can enjoy with them, such as golf, museum visits, the theater or a cold beer.  

3. More Time to Fill

Retirement coaches know it’s important to have a plan, whether it be detailed or more loosely structured, for spending the extra time you likely will have on your hands. Taking a bit more vacation time before retirement and having longer periods of time untethered to mobile devices helps you ease into things and figure out what you like and want to do. With a gradual process, you can more easily find a balance between activities with family and friends, and taking time to pursue new interests or enjoy being alone.

4. Daily Routine Upset

When your familiar routine of spending the day at the office, clinic, store, or warehouse ends, you may crave a replacement schedule. Switching to a part-time work schedule, if possible, can help you find the right retirement fit as “Day 1” approaches, as can taking up a new hobby and creating a new social network of friends post retirement.  In any event, take time to communicate with your loved ones about how you and they are feeling about your upcoming retirement and give yourself time after retiring before you fill your schedule.  There is no need to rush into things!

5. Struggle With Loss of Purpose From Lack of Work & Career

If your life is invested deeply in your career, retiring may generate feelings of emptiness. Pursuing what makes you happy outside of employment can provide a renewed sense of purpose. A retirement coach will help introduce you to fulfilling activities such as teaching, volunteering, board work, taking classes, traveling to parts unknown, tutoring, learning a new skill and helping others pursue their dreams. The world is large and there are countless ways, after a long career, to engage with it.   

With good transition planning, retirement becomes a wonderful time in life. Supported by more than 30 years of experience, Executive Coach Margaret M. Enloe, Esq. helps clients think through and plan a fulfilling  “next phase.” From her New York City office, this knowledgeable retirement coach gives professionals the tools they need to embrace the change. A dynamic motivational speaker, she offers guidance on finding personal fulfillment. To start or find out more, email Margaret at ME@MargaretEnloe.com or complete the form on her website.